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President William Ruto has directed immediate government intervention to assist families affected by severe flooding that has struck Nairobi and other parts of the country.
The floods, triggered by heavy overnight rainfall, have claimed at least 23 lives and displaced thousands of residents, according to authorities.
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In a statement, the President said the ongoing floods in Nairobi and other regions have caused significant suffering, including loss of life, displacement of families, and widespread destruction of homes, property, and livelihoods.
He expressed his condolences to families who lost loved ones and said his thoughts are with those whose lives have been disrupted by the disaster.
Ruto assured the public that the government is moving quickly to reduce the impact of the crisis and protect affected communities.
To coordinate the response, the President ordered the immediate deployment of a multi-agency emergency team led by the Ministry of Interior and National Administration, working together with the Kenya Defence Forces and other emergency agencies. The team will oversee rescue efforts, assist affected residents, and relocate those living in high-risk areas to safer locations.
He also directed that relief food from national strategic reserves be released without delay to support families impacted by the flooding.
Medical assistance is also part of the emergency response, with the government set to cover hospital expenses for victims receiving treatment in public health facilities. Additional humanitarian aid will be provided to households facing displacement and hardship.
The President said the national government is coordinating closely with the Nairobi City County Government and other county administrations to ensure an organised response that prioritises the safety and welfare of residents.
Floodwaters have caused major disruption across Nairobi, with neighbourhoods such as Mukuru, Kibra, Mathare, Huruma, South B, South C, Pipeline/Embakasi, Roysambu, Kahawa West, Githurai, and parts of Westlands among the hardest hit.
Several major roads, including Uhuru Highway, Mombasa Road, Thika Superhighway, Jogoo Road, Enterprise Road, and Lang’ata Road, were partly or fully submerged, making movement difficult in many areas.
The National Police Service has been leading rescue operations, with spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga confirming that 29 people have already been rescued from different locations and are receiving assistance. Emergency teams remain on the ground responding to distress calls and continuing search and rescue missions.
Ruto also stressed the need for long-term solutions to recurring floods in urban areas. He cited the Nairobi River Regeneration Programme as a key initiative aimed at restoring river systems, improving drainage infrastructure, and reducing flood risks in the capital.
The President said the programme will be strengthened and accelerated as part of broader efforts to protect lives, property, and the environment.
His statement highlighted the urgency of coordinated government action, immediate humanitarian support, and long-term urban planning to prevent similar disasters in the future. Authorities have urged residents to remain cautious and cooperate with emergency teams as rescue operations continue. 🚨🌧️
